A History of Pilates
The Pilates Method (originally called Contrology) originates from the work of the late Joseph Pilates, who was born in 1880 near Düsseldorf, Germany. He was a frail child and turned to physical fitness programmes to improve his body image. In the war years he was interned because of his nationality. During this time he developed a fitness programme for his fellow internees in order to maintain their health and fitness levels whilst being held in confinement – he always claimed that his regime was the reason why not one of these internees died from the influenza epidemic that killed thousands in 1918!
He was asked to train the new German army, but declined and decided to emigrate to the United States of America. On the boat trip, he met a nursery teacher, Clara, whom he later married – and with whom he set up his first fitness studio in New York, at an address he shared with the New York City Ballet.
Pilates today is taught in several forms, directly reflecting the legacy of Joseph Pilates. He did not lay down a formal training programme, with the result that, on his death, his ‘disciples’ continued teaching by adding their own variations to the core philosophy and exercises. This flexibility in approach is one of the reasons why Pilates has been so successful over this time period.
About Body Control Pilates
Body Control Pilates are proud to play our part in the realisation of Joseph Pilates dream that his method would one day be available to everyone – and of our relationship with Mary Bowen, who trained directly with Joseph and Clara Pilates and therefore provides an invaluable first-hand link back to the origins of the Pilates Method.
Body Control Pilates offers a comprehensive programme of exercises for both mat and apparatus work. They are adapted from the ‘classical’ exercises developed by Joseph Pilates. We believe that many of these classical exercises are often not suitable for the average person and the average body. In order for someone to work safely and effectively and to gain the full benefits of Pilates, these classical exercises should be broken down to establish good movement skills thus building the best possible foundation upon which to progress towards the classical, more advanced work. This is the essence of the Body Control Pilates Method.
Becki's particular interest and focus is on working with clients to create and maintain strong, flexible, and resilient bodies through midlife and beyond. In all of her classes she combines Pilates and Franklin Method exercises for low back pain, joint & bone health, pelvic floor, & mental wellbeing.
Cothi Valley Pilates
Your physical and mental wellbeing is my top priority. I am committed to supporting you to improve your complete wellbeing through movement.
Pilates focuses on alignment, breathing, and centring. This by its very nature requires concentration, which means that you can focus on yourself without distraction.
All of our classes are small in numbers to ensure that you get individual attention and are exercising safely. The enrolment form you complete before starting classes ensures that I can taylor each session to your individual health and wellbeing needs and goals.
I enjoy teaching varied and engaging classes, providing my clients with the confidence to move, and seeing how they progress over time.
"Becki is brilliant, she has a rare talent for making exercise fun" (Client)
The backdrop for all of your classes are our Suri and Huacaya Alpacas. These peaceful animals create a sense of calm and relaxation, providing the perfect complement to your classes.